Achieving the Right of Adult Status:

Through Universal Enhancement

In this informative and provocative session, Dr. Tom Pomeranz decisively dispels the myth “people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities are children living in adult bodies.” The maxim “an adult is determined by virtue of age and not intellect” is a theme throughout the presentation. Tom focuses on the importance of treating adults as adults - utilizing age-appropriate touch and voice; avoiding talking about individuals in front of them; seeking permission before physically assisting individuals are some of the many strategies we can use to demonstrate our respect of individuals’ adult status. Tom also debunks the argument that they have a “right” to choose things they value (toys) and engage in activities they enjoy (children’s games). It is our responsibility to introduce those we support to adult activities and possessions.

Deviancy–competency hypothesis is discussed as to its importance in encouraging adults with developmental disabilities to select age–appropriate manners of dress and other behaviors that signify “I am an adult and therefore deserve to be treated as one!” Tom shares with the attendees effective strategies to support parents and other significant others in individuals’ lives acknowledge and support the adult status of their loved one. Treating an adult as an adult emphasizes peoples’ similarities to the general population, thus increasing their acceptance by others in their community and improving their quality of life.

His insights have been immediately and substantially helpful to me on an issue with my son that has been vexing for a long time. Leo is 18 and approaching his behaviors from the standpoint of his wanting to be a mature adult, as Tom explained, are already starting to make a world of difference. Telling Leo to act in an appropriate way simply was not working, but talking with him about how being sensitive, empathetic, self-disciplined, etc are part of what it means to be an adult, has really struck a chord with him. Instead of telling him what to do, we are now telling him we care enough about thim to help him reach his goal of being a mature respected adult, and we are going to do everything it takes to help him achieve that, even if it's difficult. Leo is on board with this. Parent, TN Council on Developmental Disabilities, Nashville, TN

As a mom of a child with intellectual disabilities and an RN working with the same population, I think this training was invaluable, enlightening, challenging, thought-provoking and excellent. Thanks! Chautauqua Resource Center, Jamestown, NY

Thank you for the training of practical application of skills. Not another “good looking theory never applied.” Eastern Shore Regional Office, DHMH, Salisbury, MD

The topics discussed and presented today were great. I will definitely change my way of talking and conversing and working with the people that I help daily with their jobs. Western Shore Regional Office, DHMH, Hagerstown, MD﻿